An outbreak of hepatitis A in a seaside Welsh town has led a health body to ask parents to be “vigilant with their children’s handwashing”.
Public Health Wales said it was working with the local health board and council to look into a small number of hepatitis A cases of the same strain, which have been identified in three separate households in Barry, South Wales.
It added that information about the strain “suggests the infection may be spreading locally”.
Public Health Wales said those who have been unwell are “receiving appropriate care and are recovering well”.
As a precaution, vaccination has been offered to people who have been in close contact with those infected, Public Health Wales said.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver, and in most cases is a mild illness.
Susan Mably, consultant in health protection for Public Health Wales said: “We are now writing to parents who have children in primary schools in Barry to ask them to be vigilant with their children’s handwashing to prevent further spread of infection.
“The best way to prevent the spread of hepatitis A is to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. This is important after using the toilet, changing nappies and before preparing or eating food.
“Some young children who are infected may not show any symptoms but can spread the infection to others who can then become unwell. Parents and carers should help and remind young children to wash their hands properly.
“If you or your child feels unwell and has symptoms such as a fever, feeling very tired, a loss of appetite, feeling sick or being sick or have yellow skin or eyes you should contact your GP or NHS 111 Wales.”
Hepatitis A vaccines are not routinely offered in the UK because the risk of getting infected is low, NHS guidance states.
